Hyderabad, Feb 10 (ANI): Andhra Pradesh Sports Minister K Venkata has asked the Deccan Chargers to withdraw from the third edition of the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) Twenty20 tournament if no match is played in Hyderabad.

Expressing displeasure over the IPL’s decision to shift four-matches from Hyderabad, fearing protests by the pro-Telangana groups, Venkata said, “We have requested Deccan Chargers not to play in the IPL, if the inaugural match and the remaining four matches are shifted out of Hyderabad.”

However, the owners of Deccan Chargers refused to comment on the whole matter and said a formal decision from the team will be given in this regard only after the release of an official statement.

The third edition of the IPL will begin on March 12 and reigning champions Deccan Chargers and Kolkata Knight Riders were to play in the opening match in Hyderabad.

Now, IPL team Mumbai Indians will feature in the opening match in place of Deccan Chargers, as franchisees were not keen on hosting the opening match in Hyderabad after protests over the formation of a separate Telangana state. (ANI)